IRVINE’S only all-girls football club has hit the back of the net with a donation from home builder Persimmon West Scotland.

Clark Drive Girls FC runs teams ranging from under-7s to ladies. They provide a welcoming environment for girls of all ages to train, compete and develop their skills.

The club trains and plays home games at Irvine Sports Club and Persimmon’s £1,000 donation will go towards purchasing new equipment – including goals, match balls and kits.

Persimmon is one of North Ayrshire’s largest home builders and the money has been delivered through their Community Champions scheme, which sees up to £64,000 donated to good causes across the UK every month.

Jim Whyte, chairman of Clark Drive Girls FC, said: “We’re delighted to receive this donation from Persimmon. The money will help us improve our facilities and attract even more girls and women to get involved and join our teams.

“With the new season under way and this summer’s European Championships still fresh in the memory, the women’s game is going from strength to strength and we’re proud to be playing our part in that in Irvine.”

Jennifer Robertson, sales manager at Persimmon West Scotland, said: “I’m really pleased we’re able to support Clark Drive Girls FC with this donation. The club provides a brilliant platform for girls and women to train and compete and I hope this donation helps them go from strength to strength.

“Clubs like Clark Drive Girls FC are always heavily dependent on volunteers and donations to keep them running.

"At a time when cost of living pressures are impacting families’ disposable income, I hope Persimmon’s donation can take some of the funding pressure off the club’s players, friends and family – and support more girls and women to get involved in the game.”

Irvine South Councillor and cabinet member for finance and procurement, Christina Larsen, added: “I was delighted to be invited to Irvine Community Sports Club to see Persimmon present a cheque for £1,000 to Clark Drive Girls FC.

"It was great to see so many girls of all ages showing a huge passion for football and having lots of fun during training.

“I am sure the £1,000 the football club has received will go a long way in helping support the girls to develop their skills further as they move through the various ages and stages.

"They are an inspiration to all girls and highlight there are no barriers when it comes to sport.”